Biological Explanation- Atypcial Sex Chromosome Patterns

Question 1

What are two atypical sex chromosome patterns

Answer 1

• Klinefelter’s syndrome
• Turner’s syndrome

Question 2

What is Klinefelter’s syndrome

Answer 2

An atypical chromosome pattern in males, where there is an extra X chromosome (XXY configuration)

Question 3

How common is Klinefelter’s syndrome

Answer 3

Around 1 in 500 to 1 in 1000 males are affected

Question 4

What are the physical differences for Klinefelter’s syndrome

Answer 4

Taller than average, longer limbs, reduced body hair, breast development, underdeveloped genitalia, less muscular coordination, often infertile

Question 5

What are the physical differences for Klinefelter’s syndrome

Answer 5

Poorly developed language and reading skills, passive and shy temperament, poor memory and problem-solving skills, lack interest in sexual activity

Question 6

What medical complications can arise for those suffering with Klinefelter’s syndrome

Answer 6

XXY men are more susceptible to health problems that commonly affect females, such as breast cancer

Question 7

What is Turner’s syndrome

Answer 7

An atypical chromosome pattern in females, where there ins only one X chromosome (XO configuration)- meaning affected females only have 45 chromosomes

Question 8

How common is Turner’s syndrome

Answer 8

Around 1 in 2200 females are affected

Question 9

What are the physical differences for Turner’s syndrome

Answer 9

Shorter than average, high waist-to-hip ratio, no breast development, webbed neck, broad chest, underdeveloped ovaries resulting in lack of/no menstrual cycle and possible infertility

Question 10

What are the psychological/developmental differences for Turner’s syndrome

Answer 10

Higher than average reading ability, poor special, visual and mathematical skills, socially immature- have trouble ‘fitting in’

Question 11

What medical complications can arise for those suffering with Turner’s syndrome

Answer 11

Heart conditions, high blood pressure, urinary complaints, vision and hearing problems and osteoporosis

Question 12

What contribution do atypical sex chromosome disorders have towards the nature-nurture debate

Answer 12

Can compare people with these disorders with people who have typical chromosomes- allows us to see psychological and behaviour differences between the two groups and can conclude the differences have a biological basis